Interview Questions to Expect

Besides the standard, “Relax and tell me about yourself” statement, here are some other questions that you should be prepared for:

Why do you want to work as a …?

Talk about the interesting details of the job and why you believe that you would enjoy the career.

Tell me what you know about our company.

Visit the company web site or your local Chamber of Commerce. Get information on the company size, its key products or services, the markets where it competes and its overall reputation.

Why do you want to work for us?

Be honest and straightforward when answering this question.

How did you learn about us?

Explain that you visited the Career Services office or that a friend or relative or even a newspaper story or advertisement brought your attention to the company – anything to show that they are not a random choice.

How many other companies have you approached?

Simply say, “Several as a backup, but this is where I really want to work; this is where my hopes are.”

What do you plan to be doing for work five years from now?

Figure the promotions you should get if you work hard for this company over the next five years. Tell the manager you plan to be working for him or her in that position.

In your lifetime, what was your greatest accomplishment? What did you learn from it?

A personal touch works well here, such as your marriage, birth of a child or helping someone in need.

What was your greatest failure? What did you learn from it?

Admitting that you have faced failure is a sign of maturity. Avoid examples that might reflect on your ability to do the job.

What is your greatest weakness?

Focus on work, not character weakness. Turn in into a positive, “I am accused of being a workaholic.”